Being told that you have a "slipped disc" can be concerning, particularly if you are experiencing significant back pain, sciatica or other symptoms in your leg. The good news is that most disc problems can be managed without surgery.

At Leyton Osteopaths, we assess people with suspected or diagnosed slipped, herniated and prolapsed discs and help determine the most appropriate treatment approach for their individual condition.

This may include osteopathy, rehabilitation, exercise and, for selected patients, IDD Spinal Decompression.

What is a slipped disc?

The term "slipped disc" is a misnomer. Discs don't actually 'slip' or move completely out of position, it is not a term you will find in a medical report. But it is a common phrase used to describe a disc problem where part of one of the discs between the vertebrae extends beyond its usual boundary.

You may also hear terms such as:

• Herniated disc
• Prolapsed disc
• Disc herniation
• Disc protrusion
• Disc extrusion

These terms describe different appearances or degrees of disc displacement. Importantly, an abnormal disc finding does not automatically mean that it is the cause of your pain.

What symptoms can a slipped disc cause?

A slipped or herniated disc can cause symptoms in the back, buttock or leg. Many of these symptoms are related to the the discs proximity to, and ability to compress or irritate the spinal nerves. Depending on the location and extent of the disc problem, symptoms can include:

• Lower back pain
• Buttock pain
• Sciatica
• Pain travelling down the leg
• Numbness
• Pins and needles
• Weakness
• Increased pain with certain movements or positions

Some people with disc abnormalities have few or no symptoms at all. This is why we consider your MRI findings alongside your clinical presentation rather than treating the scan in isolation.

What causes a slipped disc?

The discs between the vertebrae act like shock absorbers that are designed to help distribute load and allow movement through the spine.

Disc problems can develop for a number of reasons, including the normal ageing process, repeated loading, injury and individual differences in disc structure.

A disc problem can occur suddenly or develop gradually over time.

Do I need surgery for a slipped disc?

Very rarely is surgery required or the best course of action. Many people with slipped or herniated discs improve with conservative treatment and time, although recovery varies depending on the individual and the nature of the problem.

Surgery may be considered in certain circumstances, particularly where quality of life has diminished to an extent that the inherent risks of surgery are deemed worth taking.

If your presentation suggests that specialist medical assessment is required, we will advise you accordingly.

Slipped disc treatment

Treatment depends on the individual. Depending on your condition, we may recommend:

Osteopathic treatment

Appropriate manual treatment may be used to address areas of restricted movement or musculoskeletal dysfunction contributing to your symptoms.

Rehabilitation

A progressive exercise programme can help restore movement, strength and confidence and support a return to normal activities.

IDD Spinal Decompression

For selected patients with appropriate disc-related conditions, IDD may be considered.

An MRI is required before beginning an IDD programme so that we can assess the relevant spinal levels and identify factors that may make treatment unsuitable.

Learn about IDD for Herniated & Bulging Discs

Your MRI matters — but so do your symptoms

If you have had an MRI, you may have been given terms such as:

L4/L5 disc protrusion

L5/S1 disc extrusion

nerve root compression

disc degeneration

These terms can sound alarming. However, MRI findings need to be interpreted in context. Some disc abnormalities are common even in people without pain. We consider your imaging alongside your symptoms and clinical findings to determine whether the findings are likely to be relevant to your presentation.

[Understanding Your MRI →]

Could IDD be suitable for your slipped disc?

IDD Spinal Decompression is a treatment option that may be considered for selected people with certain disc-related conditions. It isn't appropriate for every disc problem.

Before recommending IDD, we assess your symptoms, examination and MRI and discuss whether we believe it is appropriate.

[IDD for Herniated & Bulging Discs →]

What happens at your first appointment?

Your first appointment will involve:

1. A detailed discussion of your symptoms

We'll establish how your symptoms began, how they behave and how they affect your daily life.

2. Clinical examination

We'll assess your spine and, where appropriate, neurological function.

3. Review of your MRI

If you have relevant imaging, we'll discuss the findings in relation to your symptoms.

4. Treatment recommendations

We'll explain what we believe is contributing to your symptoms and discuss the treatment options available.

If we believe you need further medical assessment, we'll tell you.

[Book a Slipped Disc Assessment]

Frequently asked questions

Is a slipped disc the same as a herniated disc

"Slipped disc" is a common term used to describe disc herniation. You may also hear terms such as prolapsed disc, disc protrusion or disc extrusion depending on the appearance of the disc.

Can a slipped disc heal without surgery?

Many disc problems improve without surgery. The appropriate management depends on the individual, the severity of symptoms and whether there is significant neurological involvement.

Can a slipped disc cause sciatica?

Yes. A disc herniation can irritate a nerve root and cause sciatica.

Can IDD treat a slipped disc?

IDD may be considered for selected patients with certain disc-related conditions. An assessment and appropriate MRI are required before treatment can be recommended.

Do I need an MRI?

An MRI isn't necessarily required for every person with a slipped disc or back pain. However, an MRI is required before beginning IDD treatment.